To apply for an absentee ballot ("vote by mail" in California), you may use the application printed on your Sample Ballot, which you will receive prior to every election, or apply in writing to your county elections official. You can also obtain an application online. You will need to submit a completed application or letter to your county elections official at least 7 days before the election. The application or letter must contain 1) your name and residence address as stated on your registration card; 2) the address to which the absentee ballot should be sent (if different than your registered address); 3) the name and date of the election in which the you would like to vote absentee; and 4) the date and your signature.

Regardless of how the ballot is returned, it MUST be received by the county elections office by the time polls close (8 p.m.) on Election Day.